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RSS SubscribeThursday 8th July 2010
Australia and France Joined in Science and Tech Research
by DIISR
Australian and French researchers will be working together to fight neurodegenerative diseases, like Parkinson’s disease, thanks to funding through the 2010 French-Australian Science and Technology (FAST) Program.
In total, Australia and France will work together on 14 new cutting-edge projects ranging from screening tools for new generation antibiotics to new water treatment techniques.
“Thanks to this funding, scientists from Australia and France will work together to examine brain changes in mice who exhibit signs of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s,” said Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr.
“This project will improve our understanding of the mechanisms of brain cell death in Parkinson’s disease. The research may provide new avenues for the development of treatments to slow or stop the neurodegenerative process.
“This research could have huge benefits for those suffering from, or at risk of suffering from, Parkinson’s disease.”
The work will be undertaken by Neuroscience Research Australia, the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.
Another project will examine the use of carbon nanotube membranes to purify water. Given Australia’s dry climate, this sort of research could have enormous benefits.
Senator Carr recently discussed the collaboration between Australia and France in a meeting with the French Minister for Higher Education and Research, Valérie Pécresse.
“When it comes to science, Australia prides itself on our cooperation and collaboration with our international partners,” Senator Carr said.
“This program brings together the best minds from our two research intensive communities and enables our countries to share best practice ideas.
“Since renewing the MoU with the French Government in 2008, our capacity for future joint breakthroughs is limitless. I look forward to seeing the results from these projects.”
Further information
minister.innovation.gov.au/Carr/Documents/FASTPROGRAM2010ROUNDAPPLICATIONRANKINGLIST.pdf
